Richard A. White
University Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Botany

Studies in my laboratory are focused on the development and systematic anatomy/morphology of vascular plants, especially pteridophytes. Research activity is primarily concerned with the patterns of initiation, differentiation and maturation of vascular tissues in shoots of ferns, and their bearing on concepts of vascular organization. In particular, we have emphasized studies of the significant variation in the relationship between the phyllotactic arrangement of leaves on the shoot and the development of protoxylem and metaxylem in the stem. Current investigation of the systematic anatomy of the shoots of tree ferns (Cyatheaceae, Dicksoniaceae and allied genera), have resulted in a published description of a new genus in this group. Methods used include culture of gametophytes, histological sectioning techniques, TEM and SEM techniques and cine photography for reconstruction of the often complicated vascular structures in the shoots.

Current Appointments & Affiliations

Contact Information

  • 046 Bio Sci Bldg, Durham, NC 27708
  • Box 90338, Durham, NC 27708-0338

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